Target upbeat about holidays after strong third quarter

MINNEAPOLIS -- Target Corp. is optimistic heading into the critical holiday shopping season after a strong third quarter.

The holiday shopping season can make up 40 percent of a retailer's annual revenue -- and Target expects this year to be "highly competitive and promotional," said Kathryn Tesija, executive vice president of merchandising.

"For the holiday season, consumers anticipate spending slightly more than last year, but indicate they'll be focused on value, pricing and promotions," she said on a call with analysts.

The big-box retailer, known for its cheap but trendy merchandise, on Thursday reminded investors of the initiatives it's betting on for growth in the coming weeks, including a holiday collection partnership with luxury department store Neiman Marcus and a new online price matching program.

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For the fourth quarter, which ends in January, the company anticipates adjusted earnings of $1.64 to $1.74 per share. Analysts predict $1.50 per share.